This crustless tomato pie is a tasty and healthy treat! With juicy tomatoes and cheesy goodness, it’s packed with flavor and light on carbs.
What I love most is how easy it is to make. Just mix, pour, and bake! Plus, no crust means extra cheesy bites—who can say no to that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are key for flavor. If tomatoes aren’t in season, you can use canned diced tomatoes, but make sure to drain them to avoid excess moisture.
Cheeses: Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar give a great cheesy flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, try a dairy-free cheese blend or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. You can substitute with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk to keep it lower on carbs or swap it with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano are perfect for flavor. Dried herbs work too; just use less as dried herbs are more concentrated. I find fresh herbs give a brighter taste.
How Do I Get the Tomatoes Just Right?
Properly preparing your tomatoes is crucial to avoid a watery pie. Here’s how to handle them:
- Slice the tomatoes and sprinkle salt on them. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This draws out moisture, which keeps your pie from becoming soggy.
- Afterward, gently pat them dry with a paper towel. This ensures they don’t release too much liquid during baking.
Taking these steps will help your crustless tomato pie be flavorful and well-textured!
Easy Low Carb Crustless Tomato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 35-40 minutes for baking, giving you a total of about 55-60 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pie cooks evenly. Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar oven-safe baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Slice your tomatoes and lay them out on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This helps draw out moisture. After, gently pat them dry to remove any extra liquid.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, minced garlic, fresh basil, oregano, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. This mixture will hold everything together beautifully!
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Pour a thin layer of Parmesan cheese into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of the tomato slices over the cheese, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Pour a bit of the egg mixture evenly over this layer.
5. Repeat the Layers:
Continue layering with the rest of the tomatoes and cheeses, pouring the egg mixture between layers, and finishing with a final topping of cheese.
6. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the pie to set up nicely. Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious, low-carb, crustless tomato pie that’s perfect for a light lunch or side dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cheeses based on your preference. Try using feta for a tangy twist, or go with a dairy-free alternative if you prefer a non-dairy option. Just make sure to keep the same total volume of cheese for best results!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through—enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie and store it in the fridge before baking. Cover it tightly and bake it when you’re ready to serve. It may take a few extra minutes in the oven due to being cold from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with This Pie?
This crustless tomato pie pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal!
